The Price Monitoring & Consumer Affairs Office will soon have greater authority to address pricing issues in Vanuatu, following Parliament’s anticipated approval of new Consumer Protection & Competition Laws. These legal changes are part of the government’s 100-day plan, prioritizing fair pricing and market regulation.

In recent months, concerns have grown over increasing prices in stores across various islands. However, without strong legal backing, authorities have faced challenges in addressing unfair pricing. The new legislation aims to close this gap by empowering officials to monitor and respond effectively to price fluctuations and consumer complaints.

Stronger Monitoring & Digital Solutions

To enhance its operations, the Price Monitoring Office is conducting nationwide price inspections, with Vila and Santo already covered and Tanna scheduled next. Additionally, a new mobile app is in development, allowing consumers to report unfair pricing directly, making it easier for authorities to intervene.

According to CEO Lissie Taura, the office is working towards staff expansion, capacity building, and digital transformation to ensure efficient consumer protection.

Laws Supporting Fair Trade & Competition

The upcoming legal framework includes Competition Law, Consumer Protection Law, Fair Trade Law, and Anti-Dumping Law, all aimed at:

✅ Creating a fair marketplace

✅ Protecting consumers from unfair practices

✅ Promoting healthy business competition

With these laws in place, the government aims to strengthen consumer rights, ensuring that businesses operate fairly and transparently. The Price Monitoring Office will continue its work, using available resources to combat inflation, raise awareness, and enforce fair trade practices across Vanuatu.